Become a Leader
Is your highschooler looking for an exceptional summer experience? Our Leader In Training (LIT) program offers a unique opportunity for 14-17 year olds to develop their leadership skills and share their experience with the next generation of campers. Those accepted into the program will be able to interact with children, lead activities, pursue their passions, and enjoy time at Greenacres. LITs are required to volunteer for two weeks of camp during our camp sessions which run from June through August.
Applications Information
Ideal Candidates
Leaders in Training is the perfect opportunity for teenagers looking to explore their interests in arts, agriculture, equine, the environment, and teaching. Greenacres provides a place where they can gain hands-on experience while working with and learning from our full-time educators. The ideal candidate is a high schooler between the ages of 14–17 who is motivated, loves working with children, and is excited to be an enthusiastic role model for children ages 5–13 at summer camp.
FAQ
Do I have to participate all summer?
No, we only ask for a two week time commitment from our Leaders in Training. These DO NOT have to be consecutive weeks. Camps run from June 1st through August 8th.
Will I need training?
For accepted applicants, there is a MANDATORY in-person half-day group training session that covers program basics. The 2026 date is Saturday, May 30th, 9am-1pm. LITs who are selected for equine camps will be required to attend an additional 2-hour training on May 30th from 1:30–3:30 pm. If you will be volunteering at the Greenacres sites in Oldenburg, IN or Brown County, OH or are otherwise unable to attend the mandatory training day, please contact the program leaders to review options.
Do I have to have been a camper at Greenacres in the past?
No, the program is open to all teenagers between 14 and 17 who are interested.
What ages can participate?
We accept candidates between 14 and 17 years old. Candidates who are 13 years old may apply if they will be turning 14 by July 1st and have already completed 8th grade. LITs will be assigned to camps that begin after their 14th birthday.
Can I be a camper and an LIT within the same summer?
Our LITs serve as role models and are separate from our campers. Therefore, you cannot be both an LIT and a camper within the same summer. If you will be a camper this summer, we encourage you to apply next year to be an LIT.
Can I get service hours with this program?
Leaders in Training may fulfill school service hour/volunteer requirements. Please contact your school and our program managers for details about whether or not this program would meet your requirements.
How Do I need any special equipment or clothing to participate?
Greenacres will provide any materials related to the camps in which you are a participant. Once your application has been accepted, participants will go through an orientation that will explain the best way to dress for camp. All LITs will receive a Greenacres camp t-shirt.
How do I apply?
If you join our mailing list, we will email you when applications open. Applications will be accepted for Summer 2026 from February 16th through March 16th, 2026. All applicants will be asked to attend one group interview along with their parent/guardian (to complete volunteer application paperwork). Group interviews for 2026 will be held on:
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- Wednesday, March 18th: 5:30-6:45 PM
- Saturday, March 21st: 10:00 – 11:15 AM
- Saturday, March 21st: 1:00 – 2:15 PM
- Sunday, March 22nd: 2:00 – 3:15 PM
After the group interview, LITs will be notified if they are accepted into the program, and finalized camp assignments will be announced by May 1st, 2026.
The LIT program is competitive and not everyone who applies will be accepted into the program. If you have been an LIT in the past, that is not a guarantee you will be accepted into the program the following year. If you are not accepted into the program, we encourage you to apply again next year!
How do I get assigned to camps?
In your application, you will provide your summer availability and select your camp preferences from the 2026 Summer Catalog. If you are accepted into the program, we will assign you to camps that best align with your availability and preferences and will notify you of your assignments by May 1st.
It is very important that you clearly communicate your summer availability in your application and keep a record of the dates you submit. Once camp assignments are shared, they are final.
Contact Us
Program Managers
Emily Sellers, Mallory Fox, Sophie Kussman, and Andrew Blodgett